Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
prognoses - ultimately of a qualitative character and involves expert knowledge
and subjective assessments. In comparison, the procedure for arriving at a certain
spatial vision is not always explicitly discussed. Generally speaking, a number of
scenarios which present alternative 'futures' are usually presented, whereas there
is just one agreed and consensual spatial vision or perspective in the relevant plan-
ning documents. The differences between scenarios and visions are most blurred
as regards their function. Scenarios can be separated into prospective, explorative
or trend scenarios versus proactive, normative, policy or strategy scenarios.
Depending on the content of the normative scenarios, these can indeed take the
form of a vision, by being for example utopian or dystopian, and thus forging an
emotional reaction.
GEODESIGN
The growing interest in spatial scenarios and non-binding spatial visions, and the
problems encountered with the cartographic representation of spatial policy at
European and transnational levels, have highlighted the fact that a different
approach to their cartographic design is required than for statutory plans. Schmidt-
Seiwert (2003) has argued that a shift from regional to spatial analysis is needed
to make cartographic representations at European level more acceptable.
Traditionally, regional policies require an analysis on a regional basis, such as the
delineation of eligible areas for the EU mainstream Structural Funds. However, due
to increasing interlinkages between different parts of the territory, this traditional
regional analysis approach on the basis of administrative boundaries proves
increasingly inadequate to describe spatial structures and trends. Furthermore, to
be politically acceptable at transnational or European level, spatial policies need to
be more abstract, generalised or 'fuzzy' than at lower spatial scales.
Cartographic methods are therefore required that go above and beyond
'traditional' thematic cartography. For instance, regional boundaries could be dis-
carded so that spatial phenomena can be viewed by their appearance and distribu-
tion in the EU territory. 'Geodesign' is what Kunzmann (1993) called cartographic
representations in planning which contain a minimum of information and are highly
generalised, with often fuzzy boundaries. Artistic and aesthetic elements appear
more important for the communication of key messages and to reach agreement
than the factually correct representation of details and topography in planning
processes without clear legal competences (Moll, 1993). Furthermore, in moving
from spatial analysis to the cartographic representation of spatial policy options at
higher spatial scale, spatial references are easily lost or at least a significant chal-
lenge, as policies may not apply universally across the EU territory. The compro-
mise in some of the recent transnational spatial vision processes has resulted in
generalised territory-specific concepts (see Figures 1.4 and 1.5), whereas the
